Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Once you’ve had chickenpox, the virus remains in your body permanently. It can reactivate years later as shingles. While shingles is not life-threatening, it can be quite painful and uncomfortable.

The risk of spreading the virus that causes shingles is low if the rash is covered. Individuals with shingles should keep the rash covered, avoid touching or scratching it, and wash their hands frequently to prevent transmission. Once the rash has crusted over, the person is no longer contagious.

Protect yourself with the shingles vaccine. The CDC recommends two doses of the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV, Shingrix) for adults aged 50 years and older to prevent shingles and its complications. Shingrix is also recommended for adults aged 19 years and older who have weakened immune systems due to disease or therapy.

Shingles symptoms typically last between 3 to 5 weeks, but complications can occur. One of the primary complications of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a condition characterised by persistent nerve pain even after the rash has healed.

Dos:

1. Keep the Rash Covered: Cover the rash with loose, breathable clothing or a non-stick bandage to help reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
2. Practise Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching the rash or applying medication to avoid spreading the virus to others.
3. Take Prescribed Medications: Follow your doctor’s instructions and take antiviral medications as prescribed to help reduce the severity and duration of the symptoms.
4. Manage Pain: Use pain relievers as recommended by your healthcare provider, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help alleviate pain and discomfort.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and support your body’s healing process.
6. Rest: Get plenty of rest to help your body recover.

Don’ts:

1. Avoid Scratching the Rash: Scratching can lead to infection and increase the risk of spreading the virus to other parts of your body or to other people.
2. Don’t Share Personal Items: Avoid sharing towels, bedding, or clothing with others while the rash is active to prevent the spread of the virus.
3. Avoid Close Contact with Vulnerable Individuals: Stay away from pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems, as they are at higher risk for complications if exposed to the virus.
4. Do Not Pop Blisters: Popping blisters can increase the risk of bacterial infection and delay healing.
5. Avoid Stress: Try to minimise stress, as it can weaken the immune system and potentially worsen symptoms.

By following these guidelines, you can help manage shingles symptoms effectively and reduce the risk of complications.

Who is at risk of shingles?

Anyone who has had chickenpox is at risk of developing shingles. However, the likelihood of getting shingles increases with age, particularly in individuals over 50. People with weakened immune systems are also at a higher risk of contracting shingles.

There is no cure for shingles, but there are methods to alleviate symptoms until the condition resolves. Shingles typically improve within 2 to 4 weeks. It is important to consult your GP or pharmacist as soon as you notice symptoms.

No matter your destination, the Care Pharmacy Travel Clinic in Leeds and Bradford is committed to ensuring your safety and protection throughout your journey.